Hundreds of supporters of the Arthur Rank Hospice will join together to walk 6.5 or 10 miles next weekend to raise tens of thousands of pounds for the Charity’s care and services. Many of those who take part in this special evening do so to remember and celebrate the life of someone they love.

Star Shine Stroll Memory Walk, sponsored by Gibbs Denley Insurance Services will form a spectacular sight as walkers set off from the Shelford Rugby Club at 7pm in outfits befitting of the ‘twinkle twinkle little stars – glow bright’ theme. Participants will join together, often chatting and sharing respective stories of their loved ones, as they wind around a 10 or 6.5 mile route, before returning down the club’s candle-lit drive as the stars shine above them.

This year’s route additionally takes in the Trumpington Meadows nature reserve, alongside well-loved and historical city highlights such as the stretch of the River Cam behind the Double Trees Hilton Hotel (complete with punts), the Backs and Kings Parade.

Since its beginning in 2008 the event has now raised £283,000 thanks to the heartfelt efforts of those taking part, with an impressive amount raised through walker’s sponsorship from family, friends and colleagues.

Tasha Hills, Senior Events Officer from the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity explains why the evening is so special: “Star Shine Stroll continues to deliver so much in terms of the funds it contributes to Arthur Rank Hospice’s care and services each year, but it is the atmosphere created by our participants which is makes this event so memorable. Those taking part in Star Shine Stroll walk together, shoulder to shoulder alongside families, friends and colleagues they have never met, making new memories whilst celebrating the lives of hundreds of people they love. It’s such a magical May evening to be part of.”

Such sentiments are echoed by participants. Amongst feedback received last year were the comments: “For me personally it was an emotional time after losing my dad in October 2015. But you realise that so many other people are in the same position” and “Just a lovely evening: a mix of tears & laughter. Thank you.”

Teams already signed up to take part this year include Roy’s Rockets (Cambridge), Shining Girls (Cambridge), Lightning (Cambridge), polkadotfrog Ltd (Longstanton), Bert’s Girls (Cottenham), Fabulook (Harston), Millfield Staff (Ely), Slimming World (Ely), Gin Slings (Whittlesford), The Best Three (St Ives), Pink Ladies (Huntingdon), The Fit The Fat and the Elderly (Newmarket).

Alongside corporate sponsorship from Gibbs Denley Insurance Services and polkadotfrog, the memory walk’s £15.00 helps to cover the costs of the event, with those taking part receiving a hot drink and bacon roll, registration pack, medal and t-shirt.

Registration remains open at the time of publication and will be available until 1pm on Friday 12 May or until full capacity of 500 is reached, at starshinestroll.co.uk/register.

Participants are encouraged to try and gather individual sponsorship to support the fundraising element of the walk, but this is not obligatory. Teams of up to 10 are accepted online: for teams larger than this, please call Abi Christine-Segust, Events Officer in the fundraising office on 01223 675888.